The function [Fθ/sin (Fθ)]1/2 with F equal to approximately (3)1/2/2 is a close fit to the relative period of a simple pendulum as a function of amplitude. The fit is better than 5% up to 160°, and for 0°–100° the fit is better than ±0.001. Moreover, it can be derived without calculus.
This content is only available via PDF.
© 1985 American Association of Physics Teachers.
1985
American Association of Physics Teachers
AAPT members receive access to the American Journal of Physics and The Physics Teacher as a member benefit. To learn more about this member benefit and becoming an AAPT member, visit the Joining AAPT page.